Epidemiology: Worldwide. Seasonal in temperate climates; November to April in Northern Hemisphere and May to October in Southern Hemisphere. May be endemic in tropical areas.

Treatment: Oral amantadine or rimantadine if administered within 48 h of onset for influenza A only. Experimentally, aerosolized ribavirin for types A and B. Aspirin (salicylates) should be avoided in children younger than 19 years to reduce risk of Reye–s syndrome.

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